Here’s how it works in Germany: In one word, it’s different, but just as silly as in Oz.
There’s no such thing as an Aviation Security ID Card here.
There’s only your license, PPL (JAA or National), CPL, ATPL etc, valid in connection with a passport or national ID card, as the license doesn’t even contain a piccie of your mug.
If you hold a German PPL or upwards, and intend to fly powered a/c or motorgliders, you need to pass a security check – which can take over three months to process and which you have to pay for yourself. This is valid for two years, otherwise your license may be suspended or revoked. (The two year period is currently under review.)
Funnily, no security check is needed is you only intend to fly balloons, microlights, gliders or non-selflaunching powered gliders.
Also, no security check is needed if you hold a PPL (JAA or National), CPL, ATPL of any other nationality.
The only logic I can see in this is that The Powers That Be view German pilots as potential criminals and terrorists. Those from other countries are quite okay per se.
The mind boggles…!
